You have just arrived in the UAE, it is your first Ramadan here, and you have questions you are slightly embarrassed to ask. Do not be. Everyone who has lived here went through the same learning curve.
Eating and drinking in public: During daylight hours in Ramadan, eating, drinking, and smoking in public is prohibited. This applies to everyone, not just those observing the fast. Restaurants that serve food during the day will have screened-off areas. Your office pantry is usually the safe space for daytime meals. Water is the exception in some workplaces and public spaces, but err on the side of discretion.
Working hours: UAE labour law mandates reduced working hours during Ramadan: a maximum of six hours per day for private sector employees. If your employer is not following this, it is worth a polite conversation with HR.
Iftar culture: This is the beautiful part. As sunset approaches, the city transforms. Hotels, restaurants, and community groups host Iftar gatherings that are open to people of all faiths. Accepting an Iftar invitation from your colleagues or neighbours is one of the best cultural experiences the Gulf offers. Bring dates as a gift. They will appreciate it.
For Malayali Muslims observing Ramadan abroad for the first time: The experience is different from home. The Azaan sounds different, the community is multinational, the food at Iftar includes dishes from twenty countries instead of just Malabar. But the essence is the same. Community mosques organise Malayalam-language taraweeh prayers and Quran classes. Seek them out. The connection matters more when you are far from home.
For everyone else: Respect the fast. Wish your colleagues Ramadan Kareem. Try the Iftar experience at least once. And understand that for your fasting colleagues, those last thirty minutes before sunset are not the time for a long meeting.